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The national parks to put on your family’s bucket list
February 9, 2024 • 5 min read
Visiting a national park as a family is more than just a vacation. It's a chance to connect with nature, bond with the kids, and create lasting family memories. But with over 60 to choose from, which ones are absolute must-visits? We’re here to help. We’ve put together our picks of the best national parks in the US, with stunning features and unforgettable adventure.
Points of interest
- National parks are great for wildlife viewing
- You can pick national parks by season, climate, and terrain
- Every national park has kid-friendly activities for all ages
Be sure to check official park websites for up-to-date information on park hours, entrance fees, road closures, and any special programs or events. Check out a few planning and Leave No Trace recommendations from The National Park Service to help keep parks wild, including:
- Stick to traveling in small groups.
- Stay on durable surfaces such as maintained trails.
- Dispose of your waste before you leave the trail.
- Give wildlife plenty of space, keep your voices low, and store your food safely.
1. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion attracts nearly 4.5 million visitors each year, and comes in at number three on the top national parks by visitation list for 2022. Its red-rock cliffs loom above a 2,000-foot (609.6-meter) deep canyon, which was carved by the Virgin River over millions of years. For a truly spectacular family hiking experience, explore The Narrows, a 20- to 30-foot-wide (6-9 meter) section of canyon with towering sandstone walls on either side of you. There’s even a paved section of The Narrows along the Virgin River that is accessible for strollers. Wildlife lovers visiting Zion might be fortunate enough to spot the California Condor, North America’s largest flying bird.
Best places to stay
Vacation rentals in Springdale, UT are about 7 minutes away, while stays in St. George, UT are about 30 minutes away.
2. Arches National Park, Utah
This geological marvel filled with more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches is a must-see for every family. These incredible rock formations are instantly recognizable, having been photographed countless times. Delicate Arch is so iconic that it’s the image on the Utah license plate. You can explore family-friendly trails and marvel at these unique, evolving, natural sculptures. Make the journey more adventurous for your kids with a short scramble beneath Double Arch for amazing views and great photos.
Best places to stay
Moab, UT is close to two national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and right in the middle of Utah’s desert beauty.
3. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
For families who appreciate the beauty of wildflowers, Rocky Mountain National Park is close to paradise. During spring and summer months, the alpine meadows burst with color. Take your kids for a hike and learn about the different wildflowers you encounter. It's a fantastic opportunity for experiencing the wonders of nature up close.
Best places to stay
Vacation rentals in Estes Park, CO and Grand Lake, CO are within a short drive from the park.
4. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
This majestic park is well known for mountain landscapes and abundant wildlife, but if you go, plan at least one day when you can be in the park at sunset. And don’t forget your camera! As the sun goes down behind the mountains, the warm glow creates a stunning backdrop for the wildlife that like to emerge in the evening hours, including elk, moose, and bison. If you are visiting in the summer months with kids, take them swimming or wading in the clear waters of String Lake or Leigh Lake.
Best places to stay
Jackson, WY is 20 minutes away from the Moose Entrance in the southern part of Grand Teton.
5. Glacier National Park, Montana
Known as the "Crown of the Continent," Glacier National Park has some of the most stunning mountain scenery in America. The glaciers themselves have been shrinking over time, so now is a good time to visit so you can better understand and appreciate the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems. The wooden boardwalk and minimal elevation gain of Trail of the Cedars make it a perfect low-impact hike for families with toddlers or strollers. For road-tripping families, drive Going-to-the-Sun Road and you’ll see mountain peaks, lush forests, and gorgeous alpine lakes along the 52-mile route.
6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the few places in the world that you really do have to see to believe. The canyon stretches 277 miles from end to end, making it impossible to take in all at once. Stop at one of the many vista points, plan a short hike, or take part in an educational program. Stay for sunset and experience the play of colors across the canyon walls. If you have smaller children, try visiting the Skywalk at the West Rim, which is also usually less crowded. With helicopter tours, train rides, rafting excursions, unimaginable natural beauty, and more, there truly is something for the whole family here.
Best places to stay
If you are visiting the South Rim, try a vacation rental in Grand Canyon Village, AZ or Flagstaff, AZ. For the North Rim, try Fredonia, AZ, or Kanab, UT.
Visiting the top national parks is an incredible vacation for families looking for memorable adventures surrounded by nature’s most incredible sights. Before you go, learn the best ways to pack for the whole family — and what to look for in a vacation rental home when traveling with kids.
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